J O’Connor Pty Ltd blog provides practical guidance on audits, reviews, governance, and financial reporting issues commonly faced by incorporated associations and community organisations.
What Is My Financial Year End?
What is your financial year-end? Learn how financial years work in Australia for individuals, companies, charities and incorporated associations.
The 5% Rule and Materiality
What is materiality in auditing and does a “5% rule” really exist? Learn how auditors use professional judgement to assess material misstatements, governance risks and financial reporting issues.
Engagement Letter vs Audit Report
Learn the difference between an engagement letter and an audit report, why both matter, and how they support governance, independence and audit compliance.
Internal Controls and Gift Cards
Learn why internal controls matter for ACNC charities using gift cards for emergency relief, including a sample gift card policy, fraud prevention tips, governance obligations and practical financial controls for not-for-profit organisations.
Client Representation Letters.
A plain English guide explaining why auditors ask clients to sign representation letters and what committees, boards and management need to know.
When Should You Resign from an Incorporated Association Committee?
Learn when and how to resign from an incorporated association committee in Australia. Clear rules, practical steps, and common mistakes explained.
Compliance
Learn how community clubs and associations can ensure financial statement compliance, meet audit requirements, and avoid common reporting issues.
Fixed Fee Audits
Fixed-fee audit services for not-for-profits explained. Learn how fixed pricing works, the benefits, and why it removes cost uncertainty for associations.
Audit Timing
Learn how long an audit takes for a small association, what affects timing, and how to speed up the process before your AGM.
Audit vs Review: What’s Right for Your Charity or Association?
Understand the difference between an audit and a review for charities and incorporated associations. Learn the benefits, costs, and which option is right for your organisation.
Updated Office Hours
We’ve updated our office hours to better support clients. Monday now opens at 11am to respond to weekend emails from sporting clubs, churches, and associations.
End-of-Month Trust Account Reconciliation – Why It Matters
A practical guide to trust account reconciliation in Queensland, including the 5 business day rule, closing bank balances, and compliance with AFAR Sections 17 and 18.
Related Party Transactions & Remuneration Disclosure
Learn the new remuneration disclosure rules for Queensland incorporated associations and how related party transactions must be reported at your AGM.
Diploma of Social Care
Jason is pleased to share that he has completed the Diploma of Social Care through Charles Darwin University, with a focus on Cultural Capabilities, Perspectives of Indigenous Health, and Communication Skills.
Good Financial Records.
Learn what financial records associations must keep, why they matter, and how good record keeping supports compliance, audits, and accurate reporting.
Auditor Prohibitions Explained
Auditor independence protects your organisation. Find out why auditors are prohibited from preparing BAS, tax returns and valuations, and when registered professionals are required.
Why Engagement Letters Matter
An engagement letter sets out the terms of an audit or review, including scope, responsibilities, and fees. For incorporated associations, it plays a key role in managing risk, supporting compliance, and ensuring clarity before financial reporting work starts.
Management Letters.
A management letter explains internal control weaknesses and practical recommendations found during an audit. This guide explains what it means in plain English for committees, treasurers and boards.
Transparent Pricing: How Fixed Fees Reduce Risk
Transparent pricing and fixed audit fees help reduce financial risk, improve budgeting certainty, and build trust for incorporated associations and community organisations.
Why Timely Financial Information Matters
Learn why timely financial information is critical for audits, compliance, and better decision-making in incorporated associations and not-for-profits.